Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour

Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, offers a captivating tour that promises to immerse visitors in the city’s rich heritage. From the serene Royal Botanic Gardens to the iconic Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, this guided experience showcases Kandy’s architectural and natural wonders. Complemented by a vibrant cultural show, the tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the region’s historical significance and contemporary traditions. For those seeking an authentic Sri Lankan adventure, this city highlights tour presents a compelling opportunity to uncover the essence of Kandy.

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Key Points

This 9-hour tour showcases the top highlights of Kandy, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, a colossal Buddha statue, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and a cultural show.
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya feature over 4,000 plant species, including vibrant orchids, towering palms, and a giant Javan fig tree.
The Bahirawakanda hill offers panoramic views of Kandy’s cityscape and a tranquil 88-foot-tall Buddha figure carved from granite.
The UNESCO-listed Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is home to the revered relic of Buddha’s tooth, with a 2-hour guided tour providing historical and spiritual insights.
The Kandy Cultural Show at 4:30 PM presents traditional Kandyan dances, including demon and fire dances, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the city.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Details

The tour, titled "Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights," offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Kandy’s renowned landmarks and cultural heritage.

Explore Kandy’s renowned landmarks and cultural heritage on this comprehensive tour highlighting the city’s temples, gardens, and cultural shows.

Priced from $57.60 per person, the 9-hour tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.

Highlights include the Royal Botanic Gardens, a panoramic viewpoint, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and a traditional Kandyan cultural show.

Guests can opt for a 30-minute lunch break at an additional cost.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour provides flexibility for travelers.

Guests should dress modestly and bring comfortable shoes.

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Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya

Spanning over 147 acres, the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya boast an impressive collection of over 4,000 plant species.

Visitors can stroll through lush landscapes, admiring vibrant orchids, towering palms, and the famous giant Javan fig tree.

The gardens hold historical significance, having played a role during World War II.

Guests can explore the extensive grounds for up to two hours, appreciating the tranquil ambiance and learning about the diverse flora.

With its rich botanical heritage, the Royal Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful respite from the bustling city of Kandy.

Bahirawakanda

Atop a verdant hill, the colossal Buddha statue of Bahirawakanda commands panoramic views of Kandy’s lush cityscape.

Visitors ascend the hill to:

Admire the serene, 88-foot-tall Buddha figure, carved from a single slab of granite.
Enjoy the picturesque vistas overlooking the rooftops, temples, and verdant hills of Kandy.
Explore the small temple complex and shrines at the summit.

This tranquil spot offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city below, allowing travelers to connect with Kandy’s spiritual heart and scenic natural beauty.

Lunch

After exploring the spiritual and natural wonders of Kandy, the tour takes a 30-minute break for an optional lunch.

Guests can choose to enjoy a local meal at an additional cost. The lunch stop provides a chance to refuel and experience authentic Kandyan cuisine.

Typical dishes may include rice and curry, lentil dhal, vegetable stir-fries, and traditional desserts.

The lunch break allows travelers to rest, recharge, and enjoy the flavors of Sri Lankan culture before continuing their journey through the city’s highlights.

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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

The tour now leads visitors to the city’s most significant landmark, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site houses the sacred relic of Buddha’s tooth, attracting pilgrims from around the world.

The 2-hour guided tour provides insights into:

The temple’s historical and spiritual significance as the home of the sacred tooth relic.
The architectural features and artwork within the temple complex.
The rituals and traditions associated with the veneration of the sacred tooth.

After the tour, guests will have a deeper appreciation for Kandy’s cultural and religious heritage.

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Kandy Cultural Show

Next, the tour culminates with a captivating Kandy Cultural Show. Held at 4:30 PM, this performance showcases the rich cultural heritage of Kandy.

Visitors will witness traditional Kandyan dances, including the mesmerizing demon and fire dances. These dances, passed down through generations, depict ancient rituals and legends.

The show provides a glimpse into the vibrant traditions that make Kandy a cultural gem. After exploring the sacred sites and lush gardens, this cultural performance offers a fitting finale to the day’s discoveries in this enchanting city.

Inclusions

This tour package includes several key amenities to enhance the overall experience.

The tour includes:

Air-conditioned transportation for pickup and drop-off from central Kandy locations.
An English-speaking driver/guide to provide commentary and lead the group.
Entrance fees to the major sites, including the Temple of the Tooth, Peradeniya Botanical Garden, and the Kandy Cultural Show.

All taxes and service charges are also covered in the tour price.

Guests are advised to bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and bring sunglasses. Proper attire covering shoulders and knees is required for the sacred sites.

Important Information

To ensure a comfortable and respectful experience, guests are advised to wear appropriate attire covering shoulders and knees when visiting the sacred sites.

Guests are advised to wear appropriate attire covering shoulders and knees when visiting the sacred sites for a comfortable and respectful experience.

Participants should also bring a passport or ID, comfortable walking shoes, and sunglasses.

Smoking, alcohol, and pets aren’t permitted.

The tour itinerary is subject to change, and personal expenses and gratuities aren’t included in the price.

These guidelines help maintain the cultural integrity of the tour and provide a seamless experience for all participants.

Common Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Guests can’t bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes entrance fees to the sites and a cultural show, but personal expenses like meals are not covered in the price.

What Is the Weather Like in Kandy During the Tour?

The weather in Kandy is typically warm and humid year-round, with temperatures ranging from 75°F to 85°F. Visitors should dress comfortably and bring sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong during the tour.

Is There Wheelchair Accessibility Throughout the Tour?

The tour has some wheelchair accessibility, though it may be limited. Visitors should check with the tour operator about accessibility at specific sites like the Royal Botanic Gardens and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic prior to booking.

Can I Take Photos During the Cultural Show Performance?

Yes, photography is generally allowed during the Kandy Cultural Show performance. However, visitors should refrain from using flash photography as it may disrupt the performers. Visitors are encouraged to capture the vibrant traditional dances and costumes throughout the show.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be the most suitable for young children. It includes a lengthy schedule and visits to sacred sites that require specific dress codes. Parents should consider their child’s interests and stamina when deciding if this tour is appropriate.

The Sum Up

The "Kandy: Temples, Gardens & Cultural Show City Highlights Tour" provides an immersive experience into the cultural and historical heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Royal Botanic Gardens, Bahirawakanda, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, while also enjoying a vibrant cultural show. This 9-hour guided tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Kandy’s treasures at a reasonable price.

You can check availability for your dates here: